At FSH, we offer two internship tracks, Forensic Treatment (program code 178311) and Forensic Evaluation (program code 178312). Each track is organized into two, six-month major rotations and two, year long minor rotations (i.e., Program Evaluation and Psychological Assessment).
In the Forensic Treatment track (178311), interns receive training in innovative, evidenced-based treatment and best practices within nationally recognized treatment programs targeting specific populations. Offered programs involve individuals with 1) severe mood & behavioral dysregulation (New Outlook Program for Behavior and Mood Self-Management), 2) moderate & long-term mental disorders with resultant symptoms & behavior challenges (Recovery & Self-Motivation), 3) those who have been civilly committed as Sexually Violent Predators (Sex Offender Rehabilitation & Treatment Services), and 4) serious mental illnesses resulting in significant functional impairment (Social Learning Program).
For the Forensic Evaluation track (178312), interns gain exposure to the legal system and the interaction between the courts and the mental health system, develop an advanced understanding of DSM diagnoses, and gain experience with both structured and unstructured psychological assessments within a forensic context (e. g., malingering, neuropsychological screening, intelligence, etc.). Interns are exposed to various Court-ordered evaluations including, but not limited to competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, risk assessments, and sexually violent predator evaluations. This program also involves a six-month major rotation in a treatment program (1-4 described above).
Throughout the year, all interns will also participate in a weekly seminar series covering a wide range of relevant topics. They will also participate in the hospital’s research team for the required Program Evaluation minor. During this rotation, interns will receive real-world experiences in ongoing program improvement processes throughout the hospital to enhance client service delivery. FSH has extensive databases used to inform clinical decision-making process throughout the hospital. Finally, interns will also gain experience in various types of psychological assessments during the required Psychological Assessment minor.